I know that many people in this area want politicians to talk about immigration. And so we should. It is a really important issue for local people and that is why I am writing to you today.

People are concerned about the management of immigration, and they are worried about the impact it can have on lots of things – from jobs and wages, to public services like the NHS and housing.

I know what people want is open and honest discussion. That means talking about the mistakes political parties – including my own – have made in the past. It also means busting some of the myths that surround the issue, and setting out how immigration policy will be fair for the future. But above all, it means really listening to people’s views.

That’s why I am inviting residents of the Northfield area at an event early in the New Year to discuss immigration. It’s also why I have developed a survey so I can hear local people’s views and concerns about the issue. You can complete it here. I will be sharing the results of this survey at the public meeting in January, where I look forward to having an in-depth discussion about the issues people have raised.